Nicole Goodlet and her 1-month-old son Eli play Mary and her son Jesus in 'Return to Bethlehem' at Groce Methodist Church. The program continues today and Sunday.

Written by

Barbara Blake

It's an ancient story from 2,000 years ago, but it is timeless and apt today: a frightened woman about to give birth in the midst of a bitter winter, forced to bring forth her child under the stars of a black and frigid night because there was no room for her inside.

Barely a month ago, Nicole Goodlet was facing that prospect. Homeless and living on the street after escaping an abusive partner in another state, two weeks from her delivery date, alone save for a couple of casual friends and one relative who let her sleep temporarily on their couches, Goodlet was desperate to find the modern-day ...